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DÉCOR THEMES AND HOW TO
CREATE THEM
In a recent discussion of décor themes we suggested a link between a
preference between formal or informal attire, and how that feeling might
morph into our interiors Let’s look at how your clothing instincts might
translate into a few of today’s current styles.
People preferring a formal look are drawn to the traditional elements
present for centuries. Whether the look dates from our American colonial
period, or from a French chateau, you appreciate carved wood, swirling
lines dating from ancient natural and architectural motifs, rich color,
and a sense of history. You also prefer the furniture to be positioned
in a predictable fashion, and to have symmetrical placement of art and
accessories.
Following classic motifs, you might want to create an Old World theme,
with tufted leather chairs and a mohair sofa, brocade window treatments,
old map prints, oil paintings with gilded frames, oriental carpets, a
few antiques, wall tapestries, and subdued but rich wall colors.
A lighter formal feel can be themed around matching Louis XVI
neo-classic chairs, covered in silk or rayon, with a fleur-de-lis or
Napoleonic bee pattern, damask woven window treatments and sofa fabric,
swirling ceramic lamp bases, floral carpets, porcelain figurines,
intricately framed mirrors, inlaid wood or marble tables, and light airy
colors. This is typically French, or more broadly, European styling.
For the zanier among you, choosing a Moroccan theme may appeal. It also
employs an old world flavor, but adding vibrant silk and gauzy fabric at
widows and on pillows, jewel-like encrusted mirrors, tent-like
enclosures and canopies, and burnished metal lanterns and candle
holders, add exotic, Moroccan specific details.
Consider Victorian styling for a romantic feel, either with period
pieces and reproductions, or by using enough essentials to create the
mood. Adding velvet upholstery or draperies, mixing in lace, highly
carved furnishings, tufted settees and occasional chairs, stained glass
lamps with dangling prisms, and lots of roses, either painted or real,
will do it.
The more tailored fashion lovers may still prefer a formal look, but
with less frill and curves. Mission style, with its unadorned straight
lines, wood moldings, built-in bookcases, wood frames surrounding
cushioned chairs, mica or geometric stained glass lamps and window
panels, copper and pewter accessories, and subtle paint colors with
period stencil wall borders, is very suitable.
Mid century modern is another popular trend that glorifies the
streamlined look. This retro look at the 1950s is a contemporary theme
easy to employ by keeping sofa and chairs basic and restrained, colors
bold, laminate, or glass tables, Lucite or mercury lamps, large
geometric or floral shapes in artwork or wallpaper. Accessories are all
about shape, and are limited.
Asian styling is an offshoot of contemporary emphasizing line
simplicity. Adding fretwork chairs, bamboo elements, rice paper screens,
tatami or other grass woven floor coverings, ginger jar lamps, silk
pillows, black lacquer or rosewood tables, serene art, and touches of
red, will carry the theme.
More relaxed themes will be explored next week.
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